annual report 2008/2009 26 Operational Review contents
chairman’s report 1 chief executive officer’s report 2 introduction and nature park profile 3 management 4 organisational structure 5 planning background 6 operational review 7 sustainability 8 conservation 10 research 16 marketing 22 education 23 our team 24 friends and community 26 financial review 27 efficient business 28 commercial operations 29 abridged financial statements 30 compliance issues 32 disclosure index 35 publications 36 thank-you 37
This report available at penguins.org.au
nature park mission nature park vision
To conserve and enhance the Nature Park environment for As a Team, we will achieve the vision ‘to be a world leader in current and future generations whilst achieving a balanced environmental, economic and socially sustainable nature- environmental, economic and social outcome. based and ecotourism experiences’ as well as to be a great place to visit and work.
© State of Victoria. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 1 chairman’s report
penguin and other native wildlife habitat. Work also continued we can be proud of our many this year on preparing strategies for the Summerland Peninsula achievements across our including facilities such as bikeways and pathways and for the redevelopment of the Penguin Parade Precinct. Both these environmental and commercial teams projects are extremely important to the future of the Nature Park in the last 12 months, particularly in and will be the focus of our attention in the coming period. view of the global financial crisis and After 10 years and substantial planning, construction of the new swine flu virus outbreak visitor centre at the Koala Conservation Centre commenced in June and is due for completion in December 2009. It will provide In accordance with the FMA 1994, I am pleased to present the a greatly improved visitor and educational experience and will Report of Operations for year ending 30 June 2009. use the latest sustainable building materials. We also worked with local traders and organisations such as Phillip Island Tourism Destinations from around the world are becoming increasingly Association and Destination Phillip Island to attract more visitors competitive for tourists and we are seeing major changes in to Phillip Island. travel patterns. Over 55% of our visitors are from international destinations, so it is vital that we continue to meet their changing I thank my fellow Board Members for their counsel, time, expertise needs and offer unique and interesting experiences. We will need and dedication. They have all played a critical role in the ongoing to remain vigilant in our approach and continue to maintain the business and conservation needs of the organisation and ensured balance between promoting our commercial activities, whilst that our local community has remained informed. The Board ensuring our conservation and environmental initiatives are met. also thanks and congratulates our CEO Mark Manteit and the Management Team and staff for their hard work and dedication in One of this year’s highlights was winning the Victorian State contributing to our continuing success. Tourism Award for Ecotourism for the third year running and being inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame. This is clear recognition I, David Beatty, certify that Phillip Island Nature Park has risk of the iconic and unique experiences we provide and important management processes in place consistent with the Australian research and environmental work we undertake. Over 50,000 Risk Management Standard and an internal control system is in visitors participated in educational tours and activities designed to place that enables the executive to understand, manage and promote a greater understanding of and empathy for the natural satisfactorily control risk exposures. The Nature Park verifies this environment and of the need to protect it for future generations. assurance and that the risk profile of Phillip Island Nature Parks has been critically reviewed within the last 12 months. The State Government announced last year that it was completing the land buyback process on the Summerland Peninsula that commenced in 1985. This is very pleasing news as it provides the landowners with certainty and allows us to plan for the removal of the remaining houses and the rehabilitation of David Beatty, Chairman 2 Annual Review chief executive officer’s report
The Penguin Parade building has undergone nearly $2M of despite challenging economic times, necessary repairs in the last 12 months to ensure the safety of staff our organisation adapted quickly and visitors. Works included preventative fire services and water safety and replacement of the total roof. Three new boardwalks to changing tourism markets and and lookouts were built, providing beach access for locals and visitation by managing our costs visitors whilst protecting the surrounding natural environment. and implementing targeted The Nobbies Centre has now been open for two years and there has been an increase in functions and support from local marketing campaigns community groups. We continue to use the media to promote Total visitor numbers across all the Nature Park’s paying the centre and to successfully leverage it with our other paying attractions (excluding special events such as the Amway attractions. event of 2007/08 of 7200 visitors) increased by 1.9% to 707,172. The new Koala Conservation Visitor Centre is well underway and However, Penguin Parade attendances fell by more than 16,000 due for completion before the end of 2009. We also have been due to fewer international visitors. Both the Koala Conservation working on plans for an upgrade to the Wildlife Hospital. Located Centre and particularly Churchill Island Heritage Farm recorded near our Environment Centre, it will provide refuge for local sick and strong growth and our premium tours continued to increase in injured wildlife, and at the same time, will be an emergency facility popularity. for up to 1500 penguins in the event of a major oil spill. We are very grateful to the Board of the Penguin Foundation and its many Little We achieved a credible operating surplus of $416,903 which was Penguin adoptees for their support to make this a reality. very pleasing given the current economic climate. In addition, our commitment to funding for research, conservation and There are many more achievements detailed in this report environmental initiatives was maintained to continue to protect of which we can be proud. None of these would have been our natural environment. possible without the dedication and commitment of our staff, management team, Board and community members. I would Our ongoing efforts to eradicate foxes have also clearly paid like to personally thank everyone for ensuring that we have dividends with 33 foxes destroyed and a substantial reduction in continued our success in accordance with our Strategic and the number of penguins killed. Feral and roaming domestic cats Management Plans. continue to be a threat to Phillip Island’s native wildlife and this year, a record number of 130 feral cats were caught in key areas of the Nature Park. It has been very pleasing to see so many native wildlife species flourishing and breeding successfully on Phillip Island with the reduced threat of predators. Mark Manteit, Chief Executive Officer Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 3 introduction nature park profile phillip island nature park manages the nature park is home to unique over 1,805 hectares of natural areas wildlife and spectacular coastal scenery across phillip island - protected and managed by quality
Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island Nature Park (the Nature environmental and research programs Park) is the renowned home of Australia’s most popular natural The world-renowned park comprises diverse environments wildlife attraction – the iconic Penguin Parade along with a range of and habitats for a range of flora and fauna including threatened quality ecotourism experiences, significant natural areas and wildlife. species. We acknowledge that the Nature Park is part of the Created by the State Government in 1996, it is the only ‘Nature traditional lands of the Bunurong Aboriginal people. Park’ in Victoria. The term means that all conservation areas are Self-funded by revenue generated from our four main visitor managed under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978. venues; Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill The Nature Park is managed by a Board of Management that Island Heritage Farm and the Nobbies Centre, we welcomed is appointed by the Minister responsible for the Crown Land 707,172 paying visitors in 2008/09. A further 324,641 people visited (Reserves) Act 1978. During the reporting period, the Hon. Gavin the Nobbies Centre where entry is free - a total of 1.032M visitors. Jennings MLC Minister for Environment and Climate Change was These visitors came from both around Australia (45%) and the the Responsible Minister. world (55%). All profits generated by our main attractions are re-invested into research, sustainability, ecotourism, conservation, environmental and educational initiatives within the Nature Park. The Nature Park is Phillip Island’s largest employer with a team of 185 people in 2008/09 made up of 71 full-time and 114 part- time positions. 4 Annual Review our board of management
Board members are appointed by the Responsible Minister and Jason Perry is a chartered accountant and a partner of a large meet monthly to establish policies and strategic directions. There Melbourne accounting firm. He has extensive experience in were 11 Board meetings held in 2008/09: corporate finance, audit, due diligence and consulting related projects. Jason is also Chair of the Audit Subcommittee. David Beatty is a Fellow of the Australian Society of Accountants and of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and is Chair of the Board. Board Member Attendance: Stella Axarlis AM has extensive business experience and Stella Axarlis attended 10 of 11; David Beatty attended 10 of 11; Dr expertise in training. She is currently deputy chair of Australian Kath Handasyde attended 9 of 11; Christine Wardle attended 11 National Training Authority Board. of 11; Ian Baker attended 2 of 9 (resigned effective 14 May 2009); Dr Kath Handasyde is a senior lecturer in Wildlife Ecology and Michael Gatehouse attended 10 of 11; Jason Perry attended 8 of 11. Management at University of Melbourne and provides the Board with advice on wildlife management. There were six committees that provided the Board with advice: Christine Wardle is an environmental consultant with 30 years experience in the environment industry, finance and accounting - Audit Subcommittee (Chair Jason Perry) sectors and corporate governance. - Scientific and Research Advisory Committee (Chair Dr Kath Handasyde) Ian Baker has extensive international business experience and is owner and manager of a luxury hotel on Phillip Island. - Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee (Chair Dr Kath Handasyde) - Community Advisory Committee (Chair Stella Axarlis) Michael Gatehouse is partner of a Melbourne law firm and specialises in workplace liability, risk management and adventure - Education Advisory Committee (Chair Stella Axarlis) sport and tourism liability. - Environment Advisory Committee (Chair Christine Wardle)
David Beatty (Chair) Dr Kath Handasyde Ian Baker Michael Gatehouse
Stella Axarlis Christine Wardle Jason Perry Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 5 organisational structure
Minister for Environment and Climate Change
Department of Sustainability and Environment
Board of Management Statutory and David Beatty - Chairman Advisory Committees
Chief Executive O cer Mark Manteit
Operations Manager Executive Matthew Jackson Assistant
Sales and Human Environment Food and Research Finance Education Retail Manager Ground Services Parade Marketing Resources Manager Beverage Manager Manager Manager Manager Rick Pinsent Drew Smeath Rangers Manager Manager Richard Dakin Aimee Macartney Peter Dann Melissa Mariani Nicolette Giurgiu Heather Goldberg
Education Operations Retail Construction Food and Research Communications Accounts Occupational O cer Supervisor, Supervisors and Beverage Biologists Manager Health and Safety Work O cers Maintenance Supervisors Purchasing O cer Education and Cleaners Sales and Sales and Service Animal Marketing and Rangers Services Rehabilitation Promotions Security Payroll Projects O cer Executive IT Systems Supervisor and HR Assistants Research Marketing Insurance Administration Assistants Assistant Senior Rangers, Rangers and Penguin Gate Rangers Foundation O cer Feral Animal and Weed Control Revegetation Fox Manager and Fox O cer 6 Annual Review planning background our management plan was developed nature park goals by our team and community and 1. Integrate environmental sustainability principles into all areas of describes 386 actions across all our operations aspects of the nature park 2. Enhance and expand the delivery of education, training and research both within and outside the Nature Park 3. Strive to achieve long term financial security strategic planning 4. Optimise the ways we meet the needs of visitors and our community. Our ‘2020 Strategic Plan’ guides our commitment to ‘integrate environmental sustainability principles into all areas of our operations’. Our Strategic Plan 2006-2011 is also a key strategic nature park values document for our future and was developed with extensive consultation with Staff, Management and Board Members. Our Communication - open communication is a two way street Management Plan 2006-2011 describes 386 environmental Respect - honoring the values of others actions across all aspects of the Nature Park. Detailed business plans are prepared for all divisions on an annual basis. Teamwork - camaraderie and support Leadership - approachable, empowering, supportive nature park mission Opportunity - growth for all
To conserve and enhance the Nature Park environment for Balance - life and work – environment and economy current and future generations whilst achieving a balanced Sustainability - commitment to conservation and the future environmental, economic and social outcome. Recognition - appreciation for effort Innovation - think smart nature park vision Achievement - pride in accomplishment As a Team, we will achieve the vision ‘to be a world leader in Enjoyment - like what you do environmental, economic and socially sustainable nature- Integrity - action speaks louder than words based and ecotourism experiences’ as well as to be a great place to visit and work. Transparency - what you see is what you get Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 7
operational review 8 Operational Review sustainability we are committed to implementing a The Nature Park continued its commitment to: • Sponsoring local events held on Phillip Island fully integrated sustainability framework • Supporting and sponsoring local community groups including across all areas of the nature park Landcare and the Barbara Martin Bush Bank • Developing and maintaining walking and cycling tracks, car In addition to our extensive efforts in the field of sustainability parks, and toilet and picnic facilities in non fee-paying areas to date, the Nature Park contracted the National Centre for across Phillip Island for residents and visitors. Sustainability (NCS) at Swinburne University to extend prior work determining our ecological footprint to undertake a Carbon Linking with Community for a Sustainable Future Sequestration study. The process was undertaken in collaboration • The Nature Park supports the Mornington Peninsula and between the NCS and Australian Carbon Traders Pty Ltd. Western Port Biosphere and is represented on the local roundtable where we share information to assist the project The Nature Park implemented resource saving measures • We were involved in a number of planning applications and during the year including: planning hearings which have the potential to impact on Nature • New ‘Aerobin’ composting facilities for the volunteer house Park values and the natural environment of Phillip Island • New water tanks at the revegetation facility at the works area of • Extensive community consultation was undertaken to further develop the Penguin Parade precinct. plans for a new Visitor Centre at the Koala Conservation Centre. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 9
business risk assessment ecotourism
The Nature Park is committed to identifying, monitoring and The Nature Park maintained its Advanced Eco Accreditation, assessing the risks under its control to ensure the safety of both which is the highest international benchmark currently available staff and visitors. Nature Park staff undertake risk management through Ecotourism Australia. In total it has accreditation for 12 inspections and address issues as identified. We also conduct products and ranger guided tours which is the most for any single independent Risk Management Studies at three-year intervals. attraction in Australia. In 2008, we entered the Victorian Tourism This results in a comprehensive, proactive maintenance and repairs Awards Hall of Fame in the category of Ecotourism. The products program for all areas of the operation including machinery, coastal and tours which have advanced Ecotourism Certification are: boardwalks and the physical structure of our Visitor Centres. • Penguin Parade The following actions were undertaken: • Private Penguin Parade Experience • Independent engineer’s review of the structural integrity of the • Penguin Sky Box Penguin Parade Visitor Centre • Penguins Plus Viewing Platform • A ‘Safety Systems Manual’ was actively monitored for • Penguin Eco Explorer all precincts and staff to ensure that health and safety responsibilities, policies and procedures are followed • Ultimate Penguin Tour • Emergency management plans for all precincts and staff • Phillip Island Nature Park’s Activities Program updated to ensure compliance to standards • Phillip Island Nature Park’s Education Program • Security upgrades were completed at all precincts including further • Koala Conservation Centre’s Ranger Guided Walk expansion and upgrades of alarm systems, CCTV surveillance and improved security lighting in all work areas and visitor centres • Koala Conservation Centre • Risk Assessments were completed for Nature Park conservation • Churchill Island Heritage Farm activities, locations and events. • Churchill Island Heritage Farm Ranger Tour. 10 Operational Review conservation
at the Ventnor Koala Reserve after the autumn ecological burn. habitat Between 6000-7000 indigenous plants were planted at various A park-wide orchid survey was completed by Pathways Bushland sites within the Reserve. This project was originally supported by and Environment consultants. This survey and report builds a Department of Sustainability and Environment Bush Guardians on recent botanical surveys completed by the Nature Park to Grant and is currently being funded by a Melbourne Water Grant. increase our knowledge of local environmental assets. • Coast Action Groups have also been busy around the coast with Sunderland Bay/Surf Beach and West Woolamai groups and Smiths Beachcombers Association having successful working summerland estate bees during the year. As part of the State Government’s commitment to buyback the Summerland Estate to rehabilitate for penguin habitation, wetlands and waterways in 2008/09 six houses and eleven vacant blocks were acquired leaving 12 private houses and seven private vacant blocks • Work on the eradication of Bridal Creeper at Rhyll Swamp and remaining. Weed control and habitat restoration is ongoing Asparagus Fern at Ventnor Koala Reserve was facilitated by a throughout the Summerland Estate together with the Melbourne Water Grant decommissioning of power lines as they become redundant. Six houses were either removed or demolished from the housing • Removal of Tall Wheat -grass and rabbit control was undertaken estate this year. at Fishers Wetland and this was followed up with the planting of riparian vegetation • Communication continues with Melbourne Water to protect this revegetation waterway during changes upstream. Water testing of waterways continued monthly during the year. • As a part of a contractual agreement with Bass Coast Shire Council, over 30,000 locally indigenous plants were planted at the Rhyll rehabilitation site. In addition, over 10kg of indigenous seed was direct-seeded to maximise the success of the project. pest plants All seeds were collected and propagated by our rangers. This • Rangers and volunteers undertook 2,055 hours of weed control completed stage one of the three stage process works for the 2008/09 year. These figures exclude the contractor • International student and local university volunteers were spraying hours associated with Envirofund, Melbourne Water, involved with revegetation projects across Phillip Island, planting Bush Guardians and Good Neighbour Grants over 20,000 indigenous plants. Revegetation and weed control • Work on Tall Wheat-grass at Fishers Wetland has continued, works were also carried out at Swan Lake, Green Lake, Rhyll and focusing on competitive planting within rabbit proof enclosures Fishers Wetlands. Funds to support these projects were received particularly to buffer against reinfestation from neighbouring from the Federal Government through Envirofund 9 and also properties. While the Wheat-grass is dormant, work has been from Melbourne Water undertaken in the surrounding habitat including mulching, planting • Fencing and plant biodiversity enhancement were carried out and weed control on Bridal Creeper, Boxthorn and Coast Wattle Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 11
• At Cape Woolamai, a substantial amount of time has been 140 120 undertaken regarding Boxthorn regrowth in areas where 100 Cats large bushes have been removed over the last four-five years. 80 Inkweed and Apple of Sodom have also been controlled at Cape 60 Woolamai and Boxthorn work has also continued at Ventnor, 40 Swan Lake, Surf Beach and Forrest Caves 20 Foxes • Around the Penguin Parade, areas of Smoke Weed, Fat Hen, 0 Mallow and Couch are gradually being removed and the areas are being revegetated. More Coastal Teatree has been removed 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 and chipped to increase accessibility and nesting habitat for penguins in the colony while vegetation has been cut back in Fig. 1 No. Cats and foxes destroyed 97/98-08/09 the bus and car parking areas to discourage penguin nesting for their ongoing protection. Feral and Roaming Cats Feral and roaming cats are an unrelenting threat to Phillip Island’s wildlife. In the past year, rangers trapped 130 feral cats, which is pest animals the highest number of feral cats ever removed from the Nature Park within a year. Rangers removed them from important Foxes breeding areas for Little Penguins, Short-tailed Shearwaters, and Hooded Plovers. • 33 foxes were destroyed on Phillip Island with 21 of those A public education/awareness campaign was undertaken to succumbing to bait. This high proportion of baited foxes reinforce the message of keeping cats confined. Rangers are suggests this technique will remain a major tool in the working on future strategies to reduce feral cats from not only the eradication campaign for at least another year before monitoring Nature Park but across Phillip Island. and reactionary measures will replace broad-scale baiting Rabbits • Only two penguins were killed by foxes this year, which is also a record. This suggests a diminishing fox population although this A broad scale rabbit control program utilising Pindone™ oat bait index can be misleading as they are surplus killers and a single was completed in partnership with landowners and Landcare for animal can inflict significant damage on prey populations eastern Phillip Island. Harbour removal, warren fumigation and destruction continue at strategic areas around the Nature Park. • A higher emphasis is now being placed on monitoring the native wildlife population of Phillip Island. Species such as Cape Other Pest Animals Barren Geese and Masked Lapwings are considered to be good In conjunction with the Bass Coast Shire Council Mosquito indicators of fox abundance and monitoring changes in these Program, the Nature Park again used ‘VectoBac®’ as a biological populations over time allows us to gauge the success of the control of mosquito larvae when in plague numbers at eradication program. Newhaven and Churchill Island salt marshes. 12 Operational Review
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Centre during the year. This is a 30% increase in numbers compared infringement notices to the long-term average (136). Of these, 122 (62%) were adults, A total of 52 infringement notices were given out this year. The 17 (0.08%) were juveniles and 50 (26%) were chicks. The main majority related to fisheries and dogs on beach offences. causes for admittance were starvation on land and at sea (51%), serious injuries (19%) and ‘orphaned / wandering’ chicks (18%).
70 emergency management 60 50
There was a small chemical drum spill from an unknown source 40 Died/Euthanased that caused a health risk at Smiths Beach in May that required the 30 Released attention of emergency services. Beach notice signs were erected to 20 advise the public of the risk and Smiths Beach was closed for one day. 10 0 Chick Juvenile Adult wildlife rehabilitation Figure 2. Rehabilitation outcomes for Little Penguins 2008/09. Highlights of the year in wildlife rehabilitation included: Only one Little Penguin needed treatment for oil contamination and it was successfully released. A total of 350 animals (other than • Only one Little Penguin was admitted for oil contamination penguins) was also treated in the facility. This is slightly less than which continues the declining trend in numbers for this last year but still continues in line with an upward trend over the affliction (six last year) past ten years. Only 60 Short Tailed Shearwaters were admitted • The successful rehabilitation and release of a Southern Giant during the fledging time (131 in 2007/08) with an additional 10 Petrel (listed as endangered by the Commonwealth Department adults treated during September to April (21 in 2007/08). of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts) Excluding oil spills, this is only the second time that the treatment • The successful rehabilitation and release of a Shy Albatross centre has handled more than 500 animals (545) in a year. Because (listed as vulnerable by the Commonwealth Department of of the large numbers of wildlife in care during summer, rangers Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts) assisted rehabilitation staff during feed times from early January until late March. • The successful establishment of the Phillip Island Wildlife Rescue/ Transport Group’s Pelican Feeding and Interpretation Program In October 2008, a female Swamp Antechinus with six live joeys still attached was brought to us from Corinella. It was extremely • Successful grants from the Penguin Foundation for professional difficult to find information on how to raise the joeys. Four died plans for the new Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and eight extra but two were successfully released back to the site of capture rescue kits for the Phillip Island Wildlife Rescue/Transport group thanks to foster care and rehabilitation. • Obtaining a grant from the Department of Sustainability and During January/early February, 55 juvenile Black Swans died at Environment’s Wildlife Rehabilitator program for the purchase of Swan Lake. The birds were possibly suffering from Avian Botulism equipment. and samples were sent to pathologists at Victorian Institute A total of 195 Little Penguins were treated in the Wildlife Rehabilitation for Animals Science at Attwood and the nationally accredited Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 13
Biosecurity Sciences Laboratories in Queensland for testing. breeding season but there are still significant problems facing the However, the exact cause of death could not be determined. population and its future. Some of the birds were admitted to the Rehabilitation Facility Staff and Hooded Plover Watch volunteers were involved in the but none survived for more than a few hours. four Hooded Plover and Gull counts and undertook over 60 hours Only two wild koalas were treated at the Koala Conservation of nest protection and public education. The November count Centre’s Rehabilitation Facility. of 36 was the highest recorded November count. Data sheets for the Birds Australia ‘National Count’ were also filled in to add to the 400 state-wide biennial count. Nest records were completed for all 350 nesting attempts and rangers erected temporary beach closures, 300 nest progress signage and chick shelters as required. 250 200 Only six chicks fledged on Phillip Island despite an increasing 150 and highly productive population and an extended breeding 100 season. The average number of chicks fledged for the previous 10 50 seasons since Hooded Plover Watch began was 6.8. 0 We had the highest number of 53 recorded nests and 122 eggs, (previous record was 39 nests and 95 eggs in 2006/07) from 1992-93 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 15 pairs at 15 beaches. There were 24 chicks hatched (previous highest was 26 in 2006/07). Fig 3. Number of hospitalised animals other than Little Penguins 2008/09. While the main causes of nest failure used to be dogs, foxes, We provided expert facilitation at conferences and workshops cats, human interference and weeds (such as Sea Spurge), their for oiled and injured seabird training and we continued to influence is far less now due to active management. The main advise wildlife carers on seabird rehabilitation nationally. Dr Roz reasons for egg and chick loss this season were largely attributable Jessop also provided expert advice, presentations and practical to inclement weather, high tides and unknown predation workshops for the State Marine Pollution Wildlife Response (scavenger birds such as gulls, ravens and ibis were suspected). Training Exercise held at the Port of Melbourne in April. The Phillip Island Wildlife Rescue/Transport Group continued to function successfully with extra Call Managers being recruited. koala conservation Some members of the group also volunteered to run the San Remo Pelican Feeding and Interpretation Program. The Nature Park manages koalas within the protected habitat of the Koala Conservation Centre and also contributes to the management of the Phillip Island free-range koala population. significant species Three koalas were conceived and born in the Centre this year bringing the overall population to 37. One of these young was born to ‘Meriki’, who is in her 17th year and is our oldest koala. hooded plovers Numbers were also boosted by the addition of a male from South There were steady gains for Hooded Plovers during the 2008/09 Gippsland, who came to us via the Southern Ash Wildlife Shelter, 14 Operational Review
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to contribute to genetic diversity within our population. Tribunal regarding updates to the Council planning scheme including the incorporation of the San Remo, Newhaven and Staff received 18 reports of wild koalas from the public Cape Woolamai Structure Plan and an updated Council Municipal throughout the year (down from 42 the previous year). Two Statement. Submissions were also made to Council regarding the injured wild koalas were received for care (down from six). Both development of the Cowes, Rhyll and Ventnor Structure Plan. were successfully treated and released. In addition, four koalas were relocated to safer sites. Information sessions on the development of the Port of Hastings, the proposed construction of tidal power facility near Red Rocks and the development of a car ferry service between Stony Point capital works and Cowes were attended.
Capital works were undertaken to improve safety, provide amenities and protect natural resources. The following grants improvements/upgrades were completed during the year: Successful grant applications were made to: • Construction of a new lookout at Surf Beach and Rhyll Inlet • Melbourne Water: Protection of Swamp Scrub and Plains Grassy • Construction of a new beach access at Sunderland Bay Woodland at the headwaters of Saltwater Creek, Ventnor Koala • Installation of recycled plastic seating at the Penguin Parade. Reserve, $20,000 • Caring for Country Round, Community Coastcare 2008: Phillip volunteer accommodation Island Fox Eradication, $29,500 • Sunderland Bay and Surf Beach Coastal Rehabilitation $14,654 During 2008/09 there were 1132 volunteer nights spent in the (we were the sponsor for the application by Sunderland Bay and Volunteer Accommodation Centre which was slightly up on Surf Beach Coast Action Group) the previous year. These facilities have been a key to expanding our tertiary and international volunteer programs and our • Good Neighbour Grant: “Phillip Island Integrated Gorse conservation works. Management” $7,000 • Caring for Country through the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority for Protecting Western planning Port - Fox control in the Western Port Ramsar coastline and Orange-bellied Parrot habitat - Bass River Delta to Powlett River, Only four planning applications for developments on properties including Phillip Island and San Remo Peninsula abutting the Nature Park were received for review from the Bass Coast Shire Council – this reflects the current economic conditions. • The Nature Park was also a partner in ‘Caring for Country’ Submissions were made to the Victorian Civil and Administration grants to the Central Coastal Board: ‘Western Port Welcomes Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 15
Waterbirds’, and Landcare: ‘Penguins to the Prom’. Conservation grants received in 2008/09 were $71,154. events The Nature Park hosted the following events at Churchill Island:- community • Chill Island music festival • Churchill Island Easter Family Fun Festival Volunteers, students and community groups form an integral component of assisting in Nature Park environmental activities. • Garden Lovers Festival Projects this year included: • Art And Soul Festival • Joint revegetation planting days with local schools and • Monthly farmers’ markets. community groups • Habitat rehabilitation days with Toyota, Streets, National Australia Bank and Novartis Pharmaceuticals • Work with Landcare on pest plants/animals, wildlife corridor, Urban Landcare and salinity mapping and management • International Student Volunteers contributed six weeks of plant propagation, weed control, revegetation and habitat rehabilitation • Seven Green Corps participants graduated in November following a successful six months project with the Nature Park, Shire, Landcare, and the Barb Martin Bushbank. The Green Corps team planted over 26,000 plants, propagated 5000 plants and constructed 1km of fencing as part of the project • Practical placement tertiary students from Holmesglen TAFE, Chisholm Tafe, Gippsland TAFE, Latrobe University, Monash University, and Deakin University • Working days with Coast Action Groups, Friends of Koalas and Friends of Churchill Island The Environment, Education, Community and Scientific advisory committees also aided management and the Board with feedback throughout the year. 16 Operational Review research
The main research directions for the year included projects in validity of the standard technique for determining seal diets and relation to the following: also found remains from cartilaginous prey which had not been • winter feeding ecology of Little Penguins identified in the diet before. • diet of Australian Fur Seals • development of technology for cleaning oiled seabirds satellite tracking of little penguins • commencement of studies of human disturbance of seals • foraging behaviour of penguins in winter • climate change and Little Penguins. The satellite tracking of 53 Little Penguins across in July and The Nature Park Board is assisted by a Scientific and Research August 2008 gave us the first comprehensive picture of where Advisory Committee which includes external scientists to advise Little Penguins go in winter. The importance of Port Phillip on scientific issues and research directions. The committee met Bay and western Victoria as feeding areas during winter was twice during the year to review current projects and the research highlighted and, judging from their movements, we can program and budget for the coming year. The Nature Park also determine in which winter months they have difficulty finding acknowledges the generous support from major sponsors food. Concurrent to this project, was a study of anchovy including BHP Billiton, Toyota, the Penguin Foundation, and NSW distribution in the Bay which will allow a collaboration to Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife. investigate the spatial relationship between the penguins and their main food (anchovy) in Port Phillip Bay for the first time. research highlights french connection
investigations of the diets of Andre Chiaradia was a recipient of the Australian Academy australian fur seals of Science, International Programs to visit the Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien, Strasbourg, France to finalise Two significant papers on the diet of Australian Fur Seals analyses of diving data and write up the results from our current were published during the year. The first was on nine years of joint projects. This visit was also used to plan and discuss current Australian Fur Seal diet monitoring at Seal Rocks, which is home collaboration and to become familiar with the production of to 25% of the entire species population. Collections of scat a new generation of miniature – yet powerful – data- loggers and regurgitate samples were made between 1997-2006 and currently being developed by the CNRS (French national centre identified prey remains of 42 fish species and seven cephalopods. for scientific research). These new loggers will let to study Six species represented 80% (as frequency of occurrence) of the penguins at sea in much finer detail than we have studies fish prey, and the arrow squid Nototodarus gouldi represented conducted so far. 70% of cephalopod prey. Differences between years was related to mean sea surface temperatures in western Bass Strait where the seals foraged and therefore has considerable importance for penguins and climate change predicting the effects of climate change on the diet of seals. Two advances were made during the year in understanding the The second paper looked at seal diet determined from fish DNA potential effects of predicted changes in climate. A paper was isolated from scats. This very new technique confirmed the published indicating a strong relationship between sea-surface Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 17
temperatures in Bass Strait and the timing and success of the subsequent breeding season. In addition, the first general marine ecology of little penguins analysis of the likely impacts of climate change on Little Penguins Apart from the satellite tracking of penguins during chick-rearing was conducted. It was found that there were a number of and winter, marine research on penguins looked at the effects of aspects of the biology of penguins likely to be affected, both age on diving behaviour, foraging trip durations during winter positively and negatively, by predicted climate change over the and breeding , the effects of bands on diving performance, the next 100 years. foraging ecology of penguins breeding at St Kilda and a trial was conducted using DNA to determine diet. Breeding productivity and juvenile survival seem likely to improve with increasing sea temperatures. Marine productivity and adult survival perhaps, seem likely to decline while the feeding breeding ecology of little penguins behaviour of penguins will possibly experience both negative For the past three years, the average annual number of birds crossing and positive impacts as a consequence of climate change. Some the beach at the Penguin Parade has been relatively stable and of the negative impacts can be addressed on small scales in the higher than the long term average for the last 32 years of 551. The short-term, particularly those resulting from expected changes to averages have been 636 in 2006/07 and 2007/08 and 633 in 2008/09. the terrestrial environment. A number of areas requiring further The seasonal pattern of penguin attendance has remained research were identified including the effects of ambient and predictable over the past three years with higher numbers in burrow temperatures on breeding success and adult survival, the spring/summer (breeding) and lower numbers in autumn/winter effects of sea temperatures on adult survival and productivity and (non-breeding). the effects of rainfall on food availability. Continual review will be essential as the predictions and implications for climate change Breeding success was examined at six study sites around the develop further. Summerland Peninsula and 0.75 chicks fledged per pair which was below the long-term average of 0.94. The average laying date of the first clutch was 10 October and close to the long-term scientific and conservation average. Chicks weighed 912gm on average, just prior to fledging, significance of publications which is also close to the average of 917gm for the last 41 years. during the year beneficial long trips during incubation Much of the research conducted at the Nature Park relates to During chick rearing, seabirds tend to make short foraging trips to local environmental issues. The research department also makes gather food for their chicks and long trips to feed themselves. But a conscious effort to sustain a high profile in the international what influences trip duration during incubation when chicks are scientific community. This is achieved through the publications of not a factor? We examined the foraging behaviour of incubating research papers in peer-reviewed high impact research journals, Little Penguins using sophisticated data loggers together with collaborations with universities and other research institutions, nest-attendance records. Results indicate that body condition is an supervision of students, honorary positions in university important factor influencing a trip. When in low body condition, departments, public and conference presentations, and the the penguins undergo longer trips, perhaps to target more production of theses, reports and research papers. A full listing of profitable, distant prey patches. When in good condition, their these for 2008/09 is provided in the Publications List. trips are short, so they can return to the colony and check on the 18 Operational Review
research
status of their partner who is sitting on the eggs. This study was in used pre-fledging chicks that are usually kept in the Nature Park collaboration with the National Institute of Polar Research in Japan. animal hospital every year prior to release to the wild. Initial tests are encouraging. A large scale DNA sequencing is now underway. This banding affects diving performance project is in collaboration with the Australian Antarctic Division. Flipper banding has been the primary method of identifying individuals of penguin species. We studied the short and long- monitoring penguin weights term effect of flipper banding on the diving behaviour of Little The Port of Melbourne Channel Deepening Project instigated Penguins. Immediately after being banded, birds significantly bay-wide monitoring program to provide information on the modified their diving behaviour, increasing the time spent in status of key species, habitats and ecological processes in the various phases of the dive (descent, bottom time, and ascent) as bay. Little Penguin monitoring is a component of the bay-wide well as slowing their descent rate. Birds that have carried a band program. The stated aim of the penguin component of the for a number of years, however, do not exhibit the modified Channel Deepening Project bay-wide monitoring program is behaviour. Our findings build on an earlier study that found that to: “Detect changes in Little Penguin body mass (an indicator penguin survival in the long-term was reduced if they carried of health) outside expected variability”. The Nature Park has flipper bands. The Nature Park no longer uses flipper bands been contributing weight data to this monitoring program to mark penguins and we encourage other researchers to use throughout the year and has produced 12-monthly reports and alternative methods of identification, such as transponders. participated in the production of three press releases and a video on the monitoring. The weights of penguins fluctuated above the long-term average weight (see green line on graph below) penguins at st kilda of Little Penguins for much of the winter period. The weights The effects of human activities in the marine environment are of males and females followed a similar trend, confirming the less conspicuous than on land, but they are often extensive, generally good condition of the penguins throughout this period. particularly in coastal areas. As part of a PhD project, we are One likely explanation for the relative increase in weights over the examining interactions between the colony of Little Penguins at reporting time is that there was an increase in food availability St Kilda, 5 km from the centre of Melbourne, and marine urban compared to previous years. Preliminary analysis of penguins that developments. Penguins were recorded in a number of locations were fitted with satellite trackers in June 2009 show a greater within Port Phillip Bay and examination of their diving profiles proportion of locations immediately to the southwest of Phillip suggests that they forage extensively in this area. Little Penguins Island compared to individuals tracked in June 2008. The location at this urban location are exposed to many potential human and duration of winter foraging trips is likely to be primarily driven threats in their marine environment. by the availability of food. The shorter range trips in 2009 may therefore indicate a greater availability of prey closer to the Phillip using dna to determine diet - a trial Island colony. Over the past 20 years, we have been examining the diet of Little Penguins through stomach flushing. Although useful, this technique crested terns is invasive and has innate biases. Last summer, we conducted a captive feeding trial to test whether prey DNA analysis could be Prior to 1994, Crested Terns on Phillip Island only bred at Seal Rocks. used to more accurately and less invasively assess penguin diet. We In 1966, 40 nests were recorded at Seal Rocks, but the colony had Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 19
declined to only six nests by 1978. The tern colony at the Nobbies first appeared in the 1994/95 breeding season when 900 nests were australian fur seal diet recorded. Many new recruits, as shown by band recoveries, came Diet monitoring continued at Seal Rocks with samples collected from the main Victorian colony at Mud Island in Port Phillip Bay. at near monthly intervals. This year, 2,474 tern chicks were banded and 67 adults captured in During 2008/09, collections were made on: 17 July, 26 August, collaboration with the Victorian Wader Study Group and the colony 24 September, 29 October, 29 January, 12 March and 4 June. was estimated at 3,000 pairs, an improvement on last year when only All samples collected between 1997 and December 2006 were 2,100 pairs were recorded and closer to historical levels. Crested Terns sorted and results published this year. are listed under JAMBA and the Marine Provisions of the EPBC Act. The seven recoveries of birds from The Nobbies largely conform to entanglement rates of australian fur the usual pattern of moving up the NSW coast and into Queensland for the winter. Four relate to chicks banded in December 2008, seals in marine debris with two of these on their way eastwards along the Victorian We have monitored the frequency of entanglements, their coast by March and one up in its non-breeding area on the New severity and material since 1997. In a total of 140 days at Seal South Wales coast in July. The fourth had travelled in the opposite Rocks, we have seen 296 individually identifiable, entangled seals. direction, being in Apollo Bay in July – an unusual movement. Debris has been removed from 133 (45%) of these. In 2008-09 at Seal Rocks, we sighted 28 separately identifiable seals that were The recovery of a one year old bird at Bermagui in New South Wales entangled. We caught and removed the debris from 19 of these. in December is a further illustration that many birds remain in their non-breeding areas in their first summer and do not return to their natal area until they are two or more years old. The recovery in seals around phillip island Queensland, 1,513 km from The Nobbies, is at the northern end of the Monitoring of seals ashore on beaches on and around Phillip Island range of wintering areas used by Victorian Crested Terns. The terns continued. A total of 147 seals was recorded ashore over the past year. are expected back at the Nobbies in late September to early October. Most were pups that washed ashore dead during December and January. Several of these were being fed by people and so lingered marine ecology of australian around jetties and boat ramps for several months over summer. fur seals paper published on new zealand fur seals in bass strait seal tracking project – juveniles New Zealand Fur Seals recently commenced breeding at several sites This was the fifth year of the Juvenile Australian Fur Seal Foraging in Bass Strait. They are thought by some to be colonisers from New Study. In July 2008, we deployed eight satellite trackers at Seal Zealand. In a review of their historical and current status in Bass Strait, Rocks to bring the total juveniles tracked so far to 33 from Seal however, we report that New Zealand Fur Seals were present in their Rocks and 12 from Lady Julia Percy Island. This year, the seals’ thousands prior to the sealing era of the early 1800’s. They were movements were followed for periods of 33 to 81 days, five of the virtually eliminated from Bass Strait sites by the sealers and have just eight devices were later recovered. recently recolonised several sites. Currently, their population in Bass 20 Operational Review research
Strait is about 1000 seals, with pupping at four sites. Their numbers have not changed substantially in the past ten years. The elimination honours and postgraduate of New Zealand Fur Seals from Bass Strait by the early sealers would research have influenced the local marine ecosystem. For example, New An integral part of our strategy of continuing high quality Zealand Fur Seals eat Little Penguins (while Australian Fur Seals do research and maintaining a reputation as a research institute is not). Perhaps, Little Penguins were able to increase in numbers up to develop strong links with tertiary institutions and to supervise to their present levels in Bass Strait because of the local elimination honors and postgraduate students. We have been successful in of the New Zealand Fur Seal. If New Zealand Fur Seals continue to attracting students from a variety of universities. return to Bass Strait, Little Penguin numbers may reduce. Theses completed and in progress (supervisor in brackets) commenced study on seal responses TOPIC CANDIDATE INSTITUTION to boat approaches Completed Genetic differentiation of Little Penguins in Amanda PhD Deakin Masters student and recipient of a Fullbright Scholarship, Julia Australia (Peter Dann) Peucker University Detoxification of plant secondary PhD Australian Back, commenced research on the responses of Australian Fur Karen Marsh Seals to boat approaches. This is the first such research to be metabolites on feeding koalas and possums National University Life history and trophic relationships of conducted at Australian Fur Seal colonies. The research will assist PhD Melbourne red cod in south-eastern Australian coastal Jody Kemp University with the development of guidelines for boat approaches to seal waters (Roger Kirkwood) colonies that will minimise impacts on the seals. Sexual differences in the diets of Little Penguins MSc University of Tracy Shaw over 25 years (Peter Dann & Andre Chiaradia) Pretoria Foraging patterns of Little Penguins in the Honours Monash Rohan Long animal experimentation ethics non-breeding season (Andre Chiaradia) University committee Winter foraging by Little Penguins from Clare Honours Deakin Phillip Island (Peter Dann) McCutcheon University The Committee met three times during the year. Five new Models and methods for adaptive Honours Victoria projects were approved including research on Little Penguin diets management of the Little Penguin population Melbourne Hemming and identification using transponders, satellite tracking of Little on Gabo Island, Australia (Peter Dann) University Penguins and determining the sex ratio of Sooty Oystercatcher In progress Disease surveillance and epidemiological populations in Victoria and Western Australia. Eight previously Michael PhD Deakin investigations in Australian Fur Seal Lynch University approved projects continued through the year. The Committee populations (Roger Kirkwood) conducted inspections of rehabilitation facilities at the Penguin Behavioural ecology of Little Penguins PhD Melbourne Tania Billing Parade and Koala Conservation Centre. (Peter Dann) University Foraging ecology of Little Penguins at Tiana PhD Monash St Kilda (Andre Chiaradia) Preston University post-doctoral research Gastrointestinal microflora of seabirds: Megan PhD Deakin phylogenetic and dietary relationships Dr Ilka Zimmer is conducting a post-doctorate funded by European Dewar University (Peter Dann) Union and the University of Strasbourg in France. She is exclusively Resource partitioning of breeding seabirds Nicole PhD Deakin working on Little Penguins from Phillip Island in a joint project in Bass Strait (Peter Dann) Schumann University with the Nature Park, investigating how age and experience can Responses of Australian Fur Seals to boat MSc Deakin Julia Back influence the foraging behaviour of Little Penguins. activity (Roger Kirkwood) University Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 21
research results Average daily weight of all penguins 800 1500
700 1400
600 1300
500 1200 1100 400 1000 300 500 200 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 01 April 01 May 01 June 01 July 01 August Fig 4: Annual mean numbers of penguins crossing Summerland Beach at the Penguin Fig 5. Average daily weight of all Penguins Parade, July 1977 – June 2009
2.5
2
1.5
1 CHICKS PER PAIR 0.5
year 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Fig 6. Mean number of chicks produced per pair of Penguins between 1968/69 and 2008/09. 6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0 1997-1998 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 Fig 7. Mean number of entangled seals seen per day ashore at Seal Rocks. 22 Operational Review marketing
1,031,813 visitors international marketing
Our marketing team focuses on increasing paying visitor The focus of our international activities was to: numbers, selling tours to maximise front gate yield, implementing promotional campaigns, developing e-commerce strategies and • Increase visitation from the Eastern markets and continue to be increasing online bookings. In 2008/09, paying park visitation the lead attraction into Victoria for the China market. increased by 1. 84% and front gate yield increased by 5.6% per • Introduce trade marketing initiatives – Penguin Loyalty Club visitor. Nature Park visitation (excluding Amway event visitors 07-08) completed, Chinese New Year promotion, Stimulus package, was made up of 45% domestic and 55% international visitors. Penguin Protection program, Eco Academy. We initiated and developed promotional campaigns with key wholesalers and domestic marketing retail agents. • Improved the product perception in key western markets by The focus of our domestic activities was: focusing on our new penguin viewing options which resulted in an increase in sales to all of our premium tours and numerous • Achieving an audience circulation of 50 million and a value of ranger guided tours. $5M through our national PR and media program. • Promotion of 3 Parks Passes as the preferred ticket type, to • Focus on key international events, conferences, incentive increase awareness, length of stay and yield. 3 Parks Pass sales markets and special interest groups. Partnerships with cruise increased by 54%, from 35,015 to 53,996. ship operators have been developed with more than 5,000 passengers visiting the Penguin Parade. • Promotion of new penguin viewing options and focusing on ecotourism branding and new tour products across our parks. • Be represented at major international sales missions organised We achieved significant increases in premium tour capacity by Tourism Australia and Tourism Victoria. throughout the year and expansion of tours at Churchill Island. • Continue to focus on building relationships with international • Fully integrated major sales and marketing promotions including wholesalers, Tour Operators bringing visitors into Australia and Winter Hot Deal, Summer Nintendo Cadbury promotion, Easter Day Tour Companies. New packages have been developed to 3 Parks Pass promotions, and ongoing website promotions. include the 3 Park Passes. • Implementation of a new event concept at Easter on Churchill Island. • Have a strong presence at Australian Tourism Exchange • Maintaining relationships with existing sponsors, wholesalers in Melbourne. New material was designed in appropriate and inbound operators and developing new opportunities. languages and customised itineraries developed to target • Development and upgrades to our website to increase online eastern and western Hemisphere buyers. bookings. • New tour products have been launched – Sky Box luxury • Continuing to enhance relationships with local accommodation package, Penguin Plus with Audio Guided Tour (IPods’ providers, Bass Coast Shire Visitor Information Centre and interpretation in several languages), Audio Guided Tour at Federation Square (cross promotions and representation). General viewing, Volunteer and Education packages). Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 23 education over 50,000 visitors participated in community involvement our education programs Education staff organised, and were involved in, a number of community events this year such as World Environment Day, Sustainability The Education team delivers a variety of ranger-guided activities Festival and School’s National Tree Day. We also thank ExxonMobil to school students, international visitors and the general public for their generous and ongoing financial support to develop seal that visit the Nature Park. These activities aim to promote a educational tours for primary schools, and to further our knowledge greater understanding and empathy for the natural environment with updated data and information collected on Australian Fur Seals. so it is protected for future generations to enjoy. This year saw a significant increase in students participating in school-based traineeships education programs as well as the development of many new This year, the Nature Park’s School Based Apprentices Program initiatives and the relocation of the Education team to new offices saw 21 school-based trainees complete their traineeships in located near the Penguin Parade. Hospitality, Retail, Conservation and Land Management. The Nature Park continued to work with Traineeship Advisory Services Overall 21,846 students were involved in formal education programs Australia to deliver quality training and to ensure that the such as Rockpool Rambles at Summerland Beach, Koala Prowls at the community education initiatives were ongoing. Koala Conservation Centre and Historical interactive tours at Churchill Island. This is a 9% increase from the last financial year. coastal ambassadors education programs Two Coastal Ambassador camps were held with 31 students and three teachers participating. Camps were held at the Nature Eight new curriculum-based programs based on the Victorian Park’s new volunteer centre and students were involved in various Essential Learning Standards and the various Victorian Certificate educational talks from Rangers and Researchers. They learned about the various marine and coastal environments and developed of Education Study Designs were developed for school students. skills to take positive action in their schools’ local environments. Many of our new programs focused on the delivery of hands on research activities at the senior level such as biodiversity investigations - comparing transects from a variety of coastal eco tours environments. Education also worked on delivering multiple The Nature Park continued to provide a range of interpretive park experiences for many of our schools and International services and programs to welcome visitors and to interpret our visitors, developing programs such as ‘The People to People natural and cultural values. A total of 1,616 people attended Tour’ which visited all four precincts of the Nature Park. ranger guided eco tours across the Nature Park’s four precincts. Education staff attended and presented at various teacher and A total of 6,517 visitors experienced the ‘Ultimate Penguin Tour’ and subject conferences throughout the year. Ten new volunteers the ‘Private Penguin Parade Experience’, which provided them with were also trained to assist with the school holiday programs and more unique and intimate tours with Rangers. Due to high visitor to help out at various expos and festivals. We thank them for demand, a second ‘Ultimate Penguin Tour’ and ‘Private Penguin their help. Parade Experience’ tour were also developed and run successfully. 24 Operational Review our team
financial crisis and reduced visitor numbers at the Penguin our team is a great resource and strength Parade. The annual turnover of employees was 5.3% including to deliver best practices in ecotourism seasonal staff. The Nature Park provides a Staff Handbook which is issued to all new staff on commencement. Our Human Resources and excellent customer service Manual provides the organisation’s policies and procedures and continues to be updated throughout the year. workforce data Overall staff numbers comparison 2007/08 to 2008/09: staff training Staff 2008/09 2007/08 We are pleased to advise that 100% of staff completed Full Time 71 79 training last year. Our continued commitment to employee development saw staff undertaking tertiary and TAFE courses Part Time 114 130 in Diploma of Management, Diploma in HR Management, and Total 185 209 Certificate IV – Hospitality Supervision together with recognized Male 71 75 training programs in Management, Information Technology, Female 114 134 Occupational Health and Safety, Manual Handling, Maintenance, Risk Management, Hospitality, Retail and Customer Service. We The Nature Park had 185 employees as at 30 June 2009 and continued our partnership with Chisholm Institute, with staff continued to be the largest employer on Phillip Island. The also completing diploma and certificate courses in Hospitality decline in staff numbers was due to timing of completion of Supervision, Management and Business, which were all funded many schools based apprenticeships, the impact of the global by the Nature Park. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 25
to ensure best practice industry standards are maintained occupational health & safety throughout our attractions. We have an Audit and Risk Committee which consists of three • Our management team uses a Risk Register Matrix that Board members, the CEO and Financial Controller. Three of these calculates, evaluates and provides an overall rating for risks people are Chartered accountants and have much experience based on: likelihood, consequence and significance to our in Risk Management. They meet bi monthly to discuss risk business. In addition, the Nature Park has developed Business management in conjunction with our internal auditors. We have Continuity Plans for Power, Information Technology and Staff - identified the major risk areas and documented detailed strategies three of the major identified business risks. to minimise risk. As well as management, it is incumbent on each During the year, the Nature Park implemented specific OH&S team member in every division to proactively identify and act induction processes for each division. We also put an electronic upon risks as they arise – for themselves and visitors. Risk Management System in place. An online incident reporting Also: software system was developed and became operational with ten different types of reports in use. • At our instigation, insurers and risk assessors visit annually to identify risk issues within the business and propose formal recommendations to manage risks and minimise premiums. conferences • Identified risk issues have influenced the development Management and staff attended and spoke at a range of conferences of our specific risk mitigation strategies. These include and seminars during the year. Research staff presented papers at our pro-active Safety Management System and strategies several forums. Education staff attended specialised conferences developed prior to the implementation of every new product and educational forums to promote Nature Park programs. 26 Operational Review friends and community
• International Student Volunteers assisted with propagation, the nature park liaises with over weed removal, revegetation, and habitat rehabilitation. Three 20 community groups and values groups of 12 (including a team leader) worked for two week their input to planning and periods. • Churchill Island Volunteers contributed to restoration projects, conservation works gardening, tree planting, signage and ongoing conservation and the promotion of Churchill Island. • Churchill Island Guides wear period costume and provide volunteer contribution information for visitors as they walk through the historic buildings. They also help to ensure the historic collection is Friends groups and hundreds of volunteers contributed many protected from theft or damage. thousands of hours to programs protecting the values of the Nature Park during the year. Programs included: • Work Placement Students assist with Nature Park operations including checking cat traps, working in the nursery, weed • Hooded Plover Watch Group and Westernport Bird Observation control and replanting. and Conservation volunteers spent over 60 hours protecting nesting birds and chicks and providing education and • Activities and Events Program volunteers assist with Summer/ information to the public. Easter activities and the Coastal Ambassadors Program. • The Victorian Wader Study Group undertook studies of resident • Coast Action Groups contributed to education programs and and migratory shorebirds at Rhyll and Crested Terns at the assisted in extensive tree planting, erosion control measures, Nobbies. wildlife habitat restoration and conservation works across Phillip Island. Over 20,000 plants were planted this year. • Penguin Study Group Volunteers monitor penguins monthly. • Bird Counts were undertaken by volunteers including members of the Westernport Bird Observers Club on key species including community partnerships Cape Barren Geese, international waders, Hooded Plovers, Gulls • The Nature Park continues to work closely with Phillip Island and wetland birds, totaling hundreds of volunteer hours across Landcare in revegetation and weed control and rabbit control Phillip Island. works across the Island. • The volunteer Wildlife Rescue and Transport Group assisted • The community indigenous nursery, the Barb Martin Bushbank, to provide a 24 hour rescue and transport to the Nature Park’s is supported by the Nature Park through provision of venue and wildlife hospital of sick and injured animals from across Phillip services. The Bushbank produced thousands of indigenous plants Island. Volunteers and Wildlife shelter trainees assisted with the and seedlings for Nature Park revegetation projects this year. day to day chores in the hospital. • The Woolamai Surf Lifesaving Club is also supported by the • Friends of Koalas spent hundreds of hours assisting with Nature Park to provide life saving services at Cape Woolamai monthly Habitat days and koala counts. beach over the summer months. financial review 28 Financial Review efficient business
The areas of research and environment remain strongly operating position supported with a total expenditure of $1.9M.
Despite the difficult economic times in the last 12 months, we The operating surplus was $416,903, after including all exceeded many of our business goals and targets including abnormal and extraordinary items. This compared to net profit, control of wages and overheads, completion of $350,600 for the previous year. many infrastructure capital projects, and focusing on target visitor markets and increasing yields. nature park revenue
The Nature Park’s operating revenue was down by 7.9% on The Nature Park has four main revenue generating venues from the previous year. This is mainly due to a large “one off event” which it receives funds from visitor entry fees, souvenir and food which did not recur this year. However operating expenses sales, photography and educational programs. They are the also decreased by 9.4%. Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island and Nobbies Centre. The Nobbies Centre has free entry with revenue There were no other significant changes in financial position. gained from a café, gift shop and tours. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 29 commercial operations
The Nobbies Centre cafe and function area continued to grow retail during their second year of operation. Re-opening of the kiosk The Nature Park’s retail operations consist of sales and service in over peak periods, continual menu improvements and changes retail outlets at the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, to service were introduced throughout the year, showing Churchill Island and Nobbies Centre. It also manages an online improvements on revenue, yields and contribution margin. The store and ‘greenscreen’ photography operation. function centre hosted several weddings and corporate events throughout the year. This saw a steady increase on the previous In a difficult retail environment, highlights of the year included an year’s business. The function team at the Nobbies took part in increase in overall yields by 4.7% and increase in revenue by 4% in several trade shows and increased exposure for the centre and comparison to last year across all of the Nature Park’s retail outlets. its facilities. Upgrades to the Penguin Parade and Nobbies outlets were undertaken to enhance the visitor’s experience with a key focus on customer service. admissions and bookings • During the year the ‘admissions and bookings team’ food and beverage continued to focus on customer service, sales and product training. This approach led to a significant increase in The Food and Beverage operation continued to improve in pre-paid ticket sales and a 5% increase in yields, particularly terms of revenue, yields and contribution margin. The Boardwalk from our premium product range Café at the Penguin Parade expanded its menu, promoted meal • A key result was a 54% increase in 3 Parks Pass sales resulting deals and improved its customer service levels. A new strategy of in an increased visitor length of stay across Nature Park adding a coffee cart to our external boardwalks was introduced attractions and proved successful. This added to the overall visitor experience • An upgrade of our ticking systems was completed. This and had a significant positive impact on our yields. A highlight of the year was the ongoing support from our key suppliers enabled barcode scanning for all entry tickets into the including Cadbury Schweppes (beverage and confectionery), Penguin Parade Visitor Centre and online ticketing system Streets (ice-cream) and Grinders (coffee). All companies strongly • The Online booking system was also enhanced with a key supported the Food and Beverage department and helped us focus in driving sales which resulted in an increase from 1% greatly with promotional strategies. to 15% of entry tickets sold online for the year. 30 Financial Review abridged financial statements operating statement for the financial year ending 30 June 2009
2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATING REVENUE Sales 5 771 5 680 4 942 4 784 4 313 Cost of Sales 2 330 2 304 2 121 2 056 1 854 GROSS PROFIT 3 441 3 376 2 821 2 728 2 459
Admissions 8 461 8 062 7 527 6 830 6 299 Interest 187 251 253 130 99 Other Operating Income (A) 782 2 308 1 019 915 835 TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE 12 871 13 997 11 620 10 603 9 692
Assets Received Free of Charge 711 Assets Recognised for the First Time 935 Proceeds from Oil Spill 260 Nobbies Project Operating Grant 1 200
TOTAL REVENUE FROM CONTINUING ACTIVITES 12 871 13 997 12 820 10 863 11 338
OPERATING EXPENDITURE Employee Benefits 7 250 7 505 6 847 6 117 5 449 Materials and Supplies 866 1 109 981 916 898 Depreciation 1 721 1 671 1 213 866 883 Other Operating Expenses 2 617 3 360 2 027 2 198 2 051 TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 12 454 13 646 11 068 10 097 9 281
Writedown of Assets on Revaluation 108 Nobbies Project Non Capital Expenses 1 200
TOTAL EXPENSES FROM CONTINUING ACTIVITIES 12 454 13 646 12 268 10 097 9 389
NET OPERATING RESULT FOR THE YEAR (excluding one off specific revenue and expenses) 417 351 552 506 411
NET RESULT FOR THE YEAR 417 351 552 766 1 949
Increase in Asset Revaluation Reserve -1 702 4 007 5 712
Decrease in Net Result on adoption of a new accounting pronouncement
Increase in Contributed Capital for Nobbies Building 3 285 2 098
TOTAL CHANGES IN EQUITY -1 285 4 358 3 837 2 864 7 661 (A) 2008 total includes revenue for a “one off” event that did not occur in the other reported years. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 31
balance sheet as at 30 June 2009
2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 CURRENT ASSETS Cash Assets 4 340 4 926 799 1 779 866 Other Financial Assets 3 051 2 572 1 000 Receivables 357 361 734 576 674 Other Current Assets 64 59 56 62 120 Inventory 839 697 758 586 845 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 5 600 6 043 5 398 5 575 3 505
NON CURRENT ASSETS Property, Plant & Equipment 50 346 51 621 48 101 43 510 42 952 TOTAL NON CURRENT ASSETS 50 346 51 621 48 101 43 510 42 952
TOTAL ASSETS 55 946 57 664 53 499 49 085 46 457
CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables 806 1 025 1 262 923 1 102 Employee Entitlements 768 1 022 923 745 787 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 1 574 2 047 2 185 1 668 1 889
NON CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables Employee Entitlements 178 138 193 133 148 TOTAL NON CURRENT LIABILITIES 178 138 193 133 148
TOTAL LIABILITIES 1 752 2 185 2 378 1 801 2 037
NET ASSETS 54 194 55 479 51 121 47 284 44 420
EQUITY Contributed Capital 28 881 28 881 28 881 25 596 23 499 Accumulated Surplus 6 610 6 193 5 842 5 290 4 523 Asset Revaluation Reserve 18 703 20 405 16 398 16 398 16 398
TOTAL EQUITY 54 194 55 479 51 121 47 284 44 420 32 Financial Review compliance issues
community advisory committee establishment and minister Stella Axarlis - Chair (Board of Management) Created by the State Government in 1996, it is the only ‘Nature Ian Baker (Board of management – Resigned May 09) Park’ in Victoria. The Nature Park is managed by a Board of Cr Jane Daly Cr Kelly Simrajh Management appointed by the Minister responsible for the Patsy Hunt Fred Allen Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978. During the reporting period, the Jock McKechnie Stephen Fullarton Hon. Gavin Jennings MLC Minister for Environment and Climate John Adam Pauline Taylor Change was the Responsible Minister. Peter Huthwaite Kim Storey Margaret Hancock Nerida Stubbles committees animal experimentation ethics committee Below is the membership of the Nature Park committees who Kath Handasyde - Chair (Board of Management) provided advice to the Board throughout the reporting period. Clare Davis / Anne Davie / Jennifer Hibble audit committee Jason Perry - Chair (Board of Management) superannuation David Beatty (Board of Management) Staff are covered under two superannuation schemes: Stella Axarlis (Board of Management) Defined Contributions – 91.4 % of workforce with employer scientific and research advisory committee contribution of 9%. Dr Kath Handasyde - Chair (Board of Management) Robin Lawson Patrick Coutin Defined Benefits – 8.6% of workforce with employer Karl Harrigan Ian Norman contributions of 9.25% and employee contributions of 6%. Adrian Moorrees Simon Goldsworthy Employees have a choice whether they elect to be included Edward Pinceratto in the default defined contribution fund (Vision Super) or environment advisory committee have their superannuation paid into a nominated complying Christine Wardle - Chair (Board of Management) superannuation fund. Michael Gatehouse (Board of Management) Bob Baird Penny Manning Nicola Tregear Bessie Tyers occupational health and safety Paul Smith Michael Cleeland The Nature Park has an Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) education advisory committee and Workcover Policy and Procedures system. Safety officers met Stella Axarlis - Chair (Board of Management) regularly during the reporting period to table, assess and improve Jim Wilson Rob Higgins health and safety throughout the organisation. The Nature Park Glenn Mancer Pat O’Connell has a full time OH&S Officer who is responsible for all OH&S issues. Don Paproth David Roche Lost time for injury sustained in the workplace was 686 hours. See Paul Malone Rick Pearce page 25 for more details. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 33
There were no reports made under this Act during the reporting industrial relations period. The protected disclosure coordinator for the Nature Park Staff are employed under a Nature Park Certified Agreement and acts as an agent for the Authority to receive disclosures under the applicable Union is the Australian Services Union. No Industrial the Act and applies DSE procedures in managing disclosures. Relations claims were applicable during this year. Disclosures of improper conduct by the Authority or its employees may be made to the following: Heather Goldberg freedom of information act 1982 Human Resources Manager Phillip Island Nature Parks The FOI Act 1982 allows the public a right of access to documents PO Box 97 COWES 3922 held by Phillip Island Nature Parks. The Nature Park makes available [email protected] to the public information about the operations by creating a general The Ombudsman Victoria right of access to the information in documentary or electronic Level 22, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 form. All FOI requests are subject to a $22.50 application fee. Telephone: 3 9613 6222 Toll free: 1800 806 314 There were no requests during the reporting period. Written [email protected] requests as detailed in Section 17 of the FOI Act are to be forwarded, with prescribed fee, to: FOI Officer, Phillip Island Nature Parks, PO Box 97 Cowes Vic 3922 national competition policy A written response will be forwarded to the applicant in The Nature Park implemented and complied with the National accordance with the Act. Competition Policy Statement. privacy act building act 1993
The Nature Park is committed to ensuring that the Victorian All buildings were built and are maintained in compliance with Information Privacy Act 2000 is adhered to. This Privacy Act the Building Act 1993. applies to all Nature Park operations including website and email. Our Privacy Policy is available to all staff, visitors and stakeholders as requested. A summary of the Policy is also available on our website at www.penguins.org.au public administration act 2004 The Nature Park adheres to the merit and equity principles of the Public Administration Act 2004 to ensure employment decisions whistleblowers protection act 2001 are based on merit, that employees are treated fairly and reasonably, that the EEO is provided, and that procedures are in The Act is designed to encourage and facilitate disclosures of place to deal with disputes. improper conduct by public officers and public bodies and to provide protection for the persons who make disclosures. To ensure employees are aware of their responsibilities. The 34 Financial Review compliance issues
following policies are in place and contained in the Human Resources Policy & Procedure Manual: statement of availability of Section 2.0 other information Recruitment & Appointment Policy & Procedures: Information not fully detailed on pages 32-33 is available in the Section 4.0 Full Financial Statements. A DOPI was completed by all relevant Training & Development Policy & Procedures officers. Publications are listed on page 38 and Research Activities Section 5.0 on pages 16-21 of this report. Marketing and Promotion Activities Employees’ Performance & Development Review Policy & Procedures are detailed on page 22. Section 7.0 Termination & Settlement of Disputes Procedure Section 9.0 subsequent events Employee Equal Opportunity Procedure There were no events after the balance date which would Section 11.0 significantly effect the Nature Park’s operations in the future. Code of Practice for Employees consultancies and contracts vipp There was one individual consultancy above $100 000 entered The Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 (VIPP) requires into during the reporting period for $171,356 with KPMG who public bodies and Departments to report on the implementation were contracted to undertake an economic impact study of the of the VIPP. Departments and public bodies are required to apply Nature Park. There were five consultancy appointments made VIPP in all tenders over $3 million in metropolitan Melbourne and during the year at a total cost of $221,776. $1 million in regional Victoria. There were no major contracts entered into greater than $10 The Nature Park has not commenced or completed any contracts million during the reporting period. during 2008/09 to which VIPP applied. external reviews
Independent internal auditors performed four reviews of the Nature Park during the reporting period. fee policy
The Nature Park has a policy of reviewing entry fees annually. During the reporting period, fees were increased within CPI by an average of 2.5%. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008–2009 Annual Report 35 disclosure index
The Annual Report of Phillip Island Nature Parks is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index will facilitate identification of compliance with these statutory disclosure requirements.
Legislation Requirement Page Reference
MINISTERIAL DIRECTIONS
Report of Operations – FRD Guidance Charter and purpose FRD 22B Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers 3, 34, 62 FRD 22B Objectives, functions, powers and duties 3,62 FRD 22B Nature and range of services provided 3 Management and structure FRD 22B Organisational structure 5 Financial and other information FRD 10 Disclosure index 37 FRD 12A Disclosure of major contracts 36 FRD 15B Executive officer disclosures 63 FRD 22B Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against objectives 6-26 FRD 22B Employment and conduct principles 3, 24, 61, 64 FRD 22B Occupational health and safety policy 34, 25 FRD 22B Summary of the financial results for the year 32-33 FRD 22B Significant changes in financial position during the year 1, 2, 32-33, 41-69 FRD 22B Major changes or factors affecting performance 1, 2, 22 FRD 22B Subsequent events 36, 68 FRD 22B Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 35 FRD 22B Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1993 35 FRD 22B Statement on National Competition Policy 35 FRD 22B Application and operation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 35, 70 FRD 22B Details of consultancies over $100 000 36 FRD 22B Details of consultancies under $100 000 36 FRD 22B Statement of availability of other information 36 FRD 24C Reporting of office based environmental impacts 8-9 FRD 25 Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 24, 35, 36 FRD 29 Workforce Data disclosures 24, 35, 36 SD 4.5.5 Risk management compliance attestation 1 SD 4.2(g) General information requirements 41-69 SD 4.2(j) Sign-off requirements 69
LEGISLATION
Freedom of Information Act 1982 35 Building Act 1983 35 Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 35, 70 Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 36 Financial Management Act 1994 69 Multicultural Victoria Act 2004 22, 23
Notes: Italicised – for Departments only but recommended that where possible and with any necessary modifications required a disclosure is made Underlined – for some public bodies only Does not include disclosure index items relating to the financial report section of the annual report. 36 Financial Review publications
Kirkwood, R. (2009). Book review: ‘Albatross: their world, their ways’ by T. de Roy, M. Jones & J. reviewed publications, conference Fitter. Emu 109: 89 presentations, reports and thesis. Kirkwood, R. (2008). Book. Antarctica. New Holland Publishers PL. Lawton, K., Kirkwood, R., Robertson, G., Raymond, B. (2008). Preferred foraging areas of Heard Island albatrosses during chick raising and implications for management with regard to nature park’s staff and fellows in fisheries bycatch.Aquatic Conservation 18, 309-320. bold. further information also at Robertson, G., Moreno, C., Lawton, K., Kirkwood, R. and Valencia, J. (2008). Comparison of census methods for Black-browed Albatrosses breeding at the Ildefonso Archipelago, Chile. penguins.org.au Polar Biology 31, 153-162. reviewed publications theses (jointly supervised Penguins by nature park research staff) Chambers, L. E., Renwick, L. and Dann. P. (2009). Climate, fire and Little Penguins. Strategic Peucker, A. (2009). Genetic differentiation of Little Penguins in Australia. PhD thesis, Deakin Assessment of the Vulnerability of Australia’s Biodiversity to Climate Change. CSIRO Melbourne. University. (Peter Dann) Chambers, L. E., Congdon, B., Dunlop, N., Dann, P. and Devney, C. (2009). Seabirds. Climate Kemp, J. (2008). Life history and trophic relationships of red cod in south-eastern Australian change and the marine environment report card. CSIRO, Melbourne. coastal waters PhD thesis, Melbourne University. (Roger Kirkwood) Cullen, J. M., Chambers, L. E., Coutin, P. C. and Dann, P. (2009). Predicting onset and Marsh, K. (2008). Detoxification of plant secondary metabolites on feeding koalas and success of breeding of Little Penguins Eudyptula minor from ocean temperatures off possums. PhD thesis, Australian National University, Canberra. south-eastern Australia. Marine Ecology Progress Series 378, 269-278. Shaw, T. (2009). Sexual differences in the diets of Little Penguins over 25 years. MSc thesis, Fallow P. M., Chiaradia A., Ropert-Coudert Y., Kato A. and Reina R.D. (in press). Flipper bands University of Pretoria. (Peter Dann & André Chiaradia) modify the short-term diving behaviour of Little Penguins. Journal of Wildlife Management Wasiak, P. (2008). The role of shell grit ingestion in the reproductive biology of the Little Hoskins, A. J., Dann, P., Ropert-Coudert, Y., Kato, A., Chiaradia, A., Costa, D. P. and Arnould, J. Penguin. B.Sc. (Hons) thesis, Monash University. (André Chiaradia) P.Y. (2008). Foraging behaviour and habitat selection at sea in little penguins Eudyptula minor Farrugia, M. (2008). Effects of flash photography on Little Penguins. B.Sc. (Hons) thesis, during the chick-guard stage of breeding. Marine Ecology Progress Series 366, 293-303. Deakin University. (Peter Dann) Kato, A., Ropert-Coudert, Y. and Chiaradia, A. (2008). Foraging strategies of an inshore forager: regulation of trip duration by Little Penguins during incubation. Auk 125, 588-593. McCutcheon, C. (2009). Winter feeding areas of Little Penguins. B.Sc. (Hons) thesis. Deakin University. (Peter Dann) Nisbet, I. C. T. and Dann, P. (2009). Reproductive performance of Little Penguins in relation to Year, Age, Pair-Bond Duration, Breeding Date and Individual Quality. Journal of Avian Biology Hemming, V. (2009). Models and Methods for Adaptive Management of the Little Penguin 40, 1-13. Population on Gabo Island, Australia. B.Sc. (Hons) thesis. Melbourne University. (Peter Dann) Overeem, R. L., Peucker A. J. (nee Mitchelson), Austin, C. M., Dann, P. and Burridge, C. P. (2008). Long, R. (2009). Foraging patterns of little penguins Eudyptula minor in the non-breeding Contrasting genetic structuring between colonies of the world’s smallest penguin, Eudyptula season. B.Sc. (Hons) thesis, Monash University. (André Chiaradia). minor (Aves: Spheniscidae). Conservation Genetics 9, 893-905. Peucker, A. J., Dann, P. and Burridge, C. R. (2009). Range-wide Phylogeography of the Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor): reports Evidence of Long Distance Dispersal. Auk 126, 397–408 Kirkwood, R., Gales, R., Pemberton, D., Arnould, J. P. Y., Hoskins, A., Mitchell, A. & Shaughnessy, Preston, T. J., Ropert-Coudert, Y., Kato, A., Chiaradia, A., Kirkwood, R., Dann, P. and Reina, P. D. (2009). Continued increase in pup production and re-colonisation by Australian fur seals R. D. (2008). Foraging behaviour of Little Penguins Eudyptula minor in an artificially modified (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) between 2002 and 2007. Unpublished PINP Report, June environment. Endangered Species Research 4, 95-103. Dann, P. & Chambers, L. (2009). Little penguins and climate change. Report to Greenhouse Alliance and Department of Sustainability and Environment. Pp.46. Oil and birds Weston, M. A., Dann, P., Jessop, R., Fallaw, J., Dakin, R. and Ball, D. (2008). Can oiled shorebirds and their nests be successfully rehabilitated? A case study involving the threatened Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis in south-eastern Australia. Waterbirds 31, 127-132. conference presentations Berry, O. and Kirkwood, R. (2008). DNA analysis reveals immigration rate and breeding population size of foxes on Phillip Island, Victoria. Aust. Wildlife Management Conference, Fremantle, Coastal birds Sept. Schumann, N., Arnould, J. P.Y. and Dann, P. (2008). Diet of the Common Diving-Petrels Chiaradia, A. (2008). Effects of large and small-scale environmental changes on penguin’s (Pelecanoides urinatrix urinatrix) in south-eastern Australia during chick-rearing. Waterbirds 31, foraging abilities. Workshop on “Co-existing with Little Penguins: What Can We Do?”. April 3rd, 620-624. Hobart. Weston, M. A., Liu, X., Tsuzuki, T., Fallaw, J. and Dann, P. (2009). Forensic fibre analysis to Chiaradia, A. , Weller, D., Kato, A., Ropert-Coudert, Y., Jessop, R. determine the origins of leg-entangling threads on shorebirds: a case study. Wader Study and Swearer, S. (2008). Their tern to take a dive: diving activity of crested terns, Thalasseus Group Bulletin 116, 46-48. bergii, in Australia. Third International Biologging Science Symposium. September 1-5, 2008 Pacific Grove, California. USA (poster). Marine mammals Chiaradia, A. (2008). Penguins at sea - Management challenges. Little penguin workshop in Arnould, J. P. Y. and Kirkwood, R. (2008). Habitat selection in a benthic diver: the foraging Tasmania. February 9th 2008, Ulverstone. areas of female Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus). Aquatic Conservation 17, S53-S67. Dann, P. (2008) Penguins on land - Management challenges. Little penguin workshop in Tasmania. February 9th 2008, Ulverstone. Deagle, B., Kirkwood, R. and Jarman, S. (2009). Analysis of Australian fur seal diet by pyrosequencing prey DNA in faeces. Molecular Ecology 17, 2022-2038. Dann, P. (2008). The conservation status of the world’s penguins. Little penguin workshop in Tasmania. February 9th 2008, Ulverstone. Kirkwood, R. and Arnould, J. P. Y. (2008). Australian fur seal. Pages 723 – 725 In ‘Mammals of Australia: 3rd Edition’ (ed van Dyke S Dann, P., Renwick, L., McInnes, J., Chiaradia, A., Kirkwood, R., Buick, E., Hoffman, J. & Strahan R). Reed New Holland publishing, Sydney. and Arnould, J. P. Y. (2008). Foraging areas of Little Penguins during chick-rearing: evidence of changing food availability. Penguin Symposium, Oamaru, New Zealand, June. Kirkwood, R., Hume, F. and Hindell, M. (2008). Sea temperature variations mediate annual changes in the diet of Australian fur seals in Bass Strait. Marine Ecology Progress Series 369, Kirkwood, R. (2008). Australian fur seals and the Bonney Upwelling. Bonney Upwelling 297-309. Workshop. Queenscliff, April. Kirkwood, R., Warneke, R. M. and Arnould, J. P. Y. (2009). Recolonization of Bass Strait, Australia, by Lynch, M. J., Kirkwood, R., Burton, J., Robson, D. and Arnould, J. P. Y. (2008). Investigation of the New Zealand Fur Seal Arctocephalus forsteri. Marine Mammal Science 25, 441-449. an alopecia syndrome in Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus). Wildlife Disease Association. Kioloa, NSW, Sept. Other studies McInnes, J. and Dann, P. (2008). Sexual dimorphism and sex determination in little penguin chicks. Penguin Symposium, Oamaru, New Zealand, June. Dann, P. (2009). Book review: ‘Penguins of the World’ by Wayne Lynch. 2nd Edition. Firefly Books Ltd., Buffalo.Waterbirds 32, 476-478. Manteit M. Mar 2009 International Symposium on Sustainable Tourism in Quebec, Canada. contents thank-you
local community groups chairman’s report 1 we listen and liaise with many Friends of Churchill Island Society chief executive officer’s report 2 community groups to work together Friends of Koalas Local Farmers – Fox Control Access introduction and nature park profile 3 on joint outcomes to improve our Phillip Island and District Historical Society management 4 community and environment Phillip Island Conservation Society Phillip Island Landcare Group organisational structure 5 The Nature Park’s achievements are a tribute to the generous and Silverleaves Conservation Association Smiths Beachcomber Association Inc planning background 6 loyal support of our sponsors and colleagues. We are indebted to our many dedicated volunteers who tirelessly dedicate their time The Barb Martin Bush Bank operational review 7 and efforts to the Nature Park. Western Port Bird Observation and Conservation sustainability 8 Particular thanks go to the following organisations and volunteer supporting organisations groups for their exceptional support in 2008/09: Australian Antarctic Division conservation 10 Australian Academy of Science Bass Coast Landcare Network research 16 government support Bidvest Food Services Bass Coast Shire Council marketing 22 Blackmores Commonwealth Government Cheetham Salt Limited education 23 Australian Tourism Development Program Chisholm Institute Envirofund our team 24 Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Melbourne Water Department of Sustainability and friends and community 26 Victorian State Government Environment (DSE) Bush Guardians Program Dentche Papier financial review 27 Coast Action Coast Care program Environment Canada auditor general’s letter 28 Good Neighbour Program Environmental Protection Authority Smart Water Fund Healesville Sanctuary efficient business 30 Heritage Victoria commercial operations 31 volunteers Hi-cone ECO CARRIERS Churchill Island Volunteer Group Institut Pluridisciplinaire Hubert Curien - France abridged financial statements 32 Clare Davis Japanese Penguin Fund Luna Blu Slide Design compliance issues 34 Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) Green Corps McLaughlins/Juro Pty Ltd disclosure index 37 Hespa Mann Monash University National Institute of Polar Research (Japan) Hooded Plover Watch publications 38 National Trust of Australia (Victoria) International Student Volunteers Newhaven, Wonthaggi & Cowes Veterinary Clinics financial statements 39 Phillip Island Wildlife Rescue/Transport Group Parks Victoria whistleblowers protection act 2001 70 Wildlife Victoria PFD Food Services Kerry Ritchie Rothwvell Publishing This report available at penguins.org.au Lyn Blom and Kerry Morrison for penguin jumpers San Remo Fisherman’s Cooperative Marion Thomson and Jenny Mattingley Sylvania Lighting Penguin Study Group Tourism Victoria Schools and students University of Melbourne Shearwater Rescue Volunteers VicRoads
major supporters Our grateful thanks for their continued support:
nature park mission nature park vision
To conserve and enhance the Nature Park environment for As a Team, we will achieve the vision ‘to be a world leader in current and future generations whilst achieving a balanced environmental, economic and socially sustainable nature- environmental, economic and social outcome. based and ecotourism experiences’ as well as to be a great place to visit and work.
© State of Victoria. Phillip Island Nature Parks 2008. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. annual report 2008/2009 annual report 2008/2009
Phillip Island Nature Parks Phillip Island Nature Parks is a not-for-profit organisation PO Box 97 Cowes Victoria 3922 Australia dedicated to the protection of Phillip Island and its wildlife. We are committed to environmental sustainabillity. This report is printed on 100% recycled Australian made paper using solar power energy.